11 answers
Abby
Student
Danville, New Hampshire
1
Question
Asked
702 views
How do I figure out what career to pursue?
As a follow up question, once you figure out what you want to do, how do you figure out how to get there?
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11 answers
Tonya Miller
Technical Support
7
Answers
Wisconsin, WI
Updated
Tonya’s Answer
Hello! There are tests that you can take online, as well at school that show you what jobs best fit your personality. This will give you ideas what you may be good at or interested in. Think about what makes you happy and what you would enjoy doing everyday. Colleges offer guidance with your career path as well.
Michael Sabat
Sales
1
Answer
Washington, Washington
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Abby,
First and foremost, you are probably going to live a really long time. In my opinion choosing a career and expecting to stay there for many decades is a risky idea. If you have a strong calling to be a surgeon, doctor or other types of life-long careers, that is great and you should head that direction. Of course you probably wouldn't be asking this question if that was the case!
I would think about choosing a career like trying to find your favorite food. Like a tasting menu. Start by taking your best guess at what you'd like to do, see how it goes and then continue to stick with it or find something else. The real trick is that you might need to start down a path before you can see all of the other options in that path. It's worth it to explore a little and then re-evaluate. Don't think about this as a decision, but more of a process.
Also, it might be important to optimize for optionality. What next step will give you the most options in 2-3 years.
Maybe something to try... list out your top 3 ideas and then rank them for what you'd enjoy most and what would lead to the most options in a few years.
Most importantly, whatever you choose should give you energy, not drain your energy. If you find yourself drained at the end of the day, that's probably something you don't want to do long term.
List 3-5 Options
Rank based on fun and optionality.
First and foremost, you are probably going to live a really long time. In my opinion choosing a career and expecting to stay there for many decades is a risky idea. If you have a strong calling to be a surgeon, doctor or other types of life-long careers, that is great and you should head that direction. Of course you probably wouldn't be asking this question if that was the case!
I would think about choosing a career like trying to find your favorite food. Like a tasting menu. Start by taking your best guess at what you'd like to do, see how it goes and then continue to stick with it or find something else. The real trick is that you might need to start down a path before you can see all of the other options in that path. It's worth it to explore a little and then re-evaluate. Don't think about this as a decision, but more of a process.
Also, it might be important to optimize for optionality. What next step will give you the most options in 2-3 years.
Maybe something to try... list out your top 3 ideas and then rank them for what you'd enjoy most and what would lead to the most options in a few years.
Most importantly, whatever you choose should give you energy, not drain your energy. If you find yourself drained at the end of the day, that's probably something you don't want to do long term.
Michael recommends the following next steps:
Connie Princetta
Vocational Rehabilitation counselor
2
Answers
Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania
Updated
Connie’s Answer
Hello Abby,
What a fantastic query you've posed! Let's start by viewing a career as a journey rather than a fixed destination. If you were to ask a hundred individuals, you might discover that a significant number aren't in the role they envisioned when they embarked on their professional journey.
Consider what truly sparks your interest. What activities bring you joy? What tasks do you excel at? Engage in conversations with individuals from diverse professions. Perhaps, volunteering at organizations that pique your interest could be a good start. Don't hesitate to ask a plethora of questions. People generally love sharing their experiences.
Inquire about both the highs and lows of their profession. Learn about their journey, the skills, education, and experience they acquired along the way. Reflect on this question: If financial considerations were irrelevant, what would you love to do?
Do you have any hobbies or interests that you're passionate about? Investigate potential careers within those fields. I hope this guidance proves beneficial to you. Best of luck on your exciting journey ahead!
What a fantastic query you've posed! Let's start by viewing a career as a journey rather than a fixed destination. If you were to ask a hundred individuals, you might discover that a significant number aren't in the role they envisioned when they embarked on their professional journey.
Consider what truly sparks your interest. What activities bring you joy? What tasks do you excel at? Engage in conversations with individuals from diverse professions. Perhaps, volunteering at organizations that pique your interest could be a good start. Don't hesitate to ask a plethora of questions. People generally love sharing their experiences.
Inquire about both the highs and lows of their profession. Learn about their journey, the skills, education, and experience they acquired along the way. Reflect on this question: If financial considerations were irrelevant, what would you love to do?
Do you have any hobbies or interests that you're passionate about? Investigate potential careers within those fields. I hope this guidance proves beneficial to you. Best of luck on your exciting journey ahead!
Selena Rudolph
Campaigns Manager
3
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Selena’s Answer
Hello Abby,
That's an excellent question you've asked, and it's one that doesn't really have a definitive ending because our career paths are always evolving. I know it can be challenging to pinpoint your passion given the vast array of options out there. Here's a tip: try identifying things you don't particularly enjoy. This could help you narrow down your choices. For instance, if you're not a fan of working on computers, you might want to consider careers that involve more face-to-face interactions, like in the medical, artistic, or environmental fields.
Once you've got a few areas in mind that pique your interest, I'd suggest conducting informational interviews. This means reaching out to professionals who work in those fields and asking them about their experiences. I've personally found this very helpful, as most people are more than happy to share their insights and offer advice. Once you've honed in on specific roles that seem appealing, try gaining some hands-on experience through internships. This will give you a real taste of the job and help you decide if it's a good fit. Remember, it's perfectly okay to change your mind if something doesn't feel right!
After you've got a clearer picture of the industry you're drawn to, I find it useful to revisit the question, "What am I not interested in doing?" Then, start asking people about their daily tasks to see if they align with your interests. If not, don't hesitate to share your strengths and ask for their advice on other roles that might suit you better.
That's an excellent question you've asked, and it's one that doesn't really have a definitive ending because our career paths are always evolving. I know it can be challenging to pinpoint your passion given the vast array of options out there. Here's a tip: try identifying things you don't particularly enjoy. This could help you narrow down your choices. For instance, if you're not a fan of working on computers, you might want to consider careers that involve more face-to-face interactions, like in the medical, artistic, or environmental fields.
Once you've got a few areas in mind that pique your interest, I'd suggest conducting informational interviews. This means reaching out to professionals who work in those fields and asking them about their experiences. I've personally found this very helpful, as most people are more than happy to share their insights and offer advice. Once you've honed in on specific roles that seem appealing, try gaining some hands-on experience through internships. This will give you a real taste of the job and help you decide if it's a good fit. Remember, it's perfectly okay to change your mind if something doesn't feel right!
After you've got a clearer picture of the industry you're drawn to, I find it useful to revisit the question, "What am I not interested in doing?" Then, start asking people about their daily tasks to see if they align with your interests. If not, don't hesitate to share your strengths and ask for their advice on other roles that might suit you better.
Elsa Rodriguez, MBA
2
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Elsa’s Answer
Hey Abby,
Finding a career that sparks your interest and fuels your passion would be absolutely wonderful. As you embark on your college journey, explore various classes that catch your eye. To give you an example, I once believed I wanted to be a lawyer, so I enrolled in a political science class. But just an hour into the class, I realized law wasn't my calling. I didn't have the fire or the motivation for it, so I promptly visited my counselor's office and switched my major. This kind of change is completely normal, so don't worry if it happens to you. After a bit of trial and error, I finally found my place in the Business field. I realized that a business degree could unlock numerous opportunities in the corporate world. But remember, a desk job isn't everyone's cup of tea. You might discover your passion lies in Nursing, Physical Therapy, Architecture, Medicine, or countless other fields. The key is to find something you genuinely love, and then it won't feel like work at all. Best of luck on your journey!
Finding a career that sparks your interest and fuels your passion would be absolutely wonderful. As you embark on your college journey, explore various classes that catch your eye. To give you an example, I once believed I wanted to be a lawyer, so I enrolled in a political science class. But just an hour into the class, I realized law wasn't my calling. I didn't have the fire or the motivation for it, so I promptly visited my counselor's office and switched my major. This kind of change is completely normal, so don't worry if it happens to you. After a bit of trial and error, I finally found my place in the Business field. I realized that a business degree could unlock numerous opportunities in the corporate world. But remember, a desk job isn't everyone's cup of tea. You might discover your passion lies in Nursing, Physical Therapy, Architecture, Medicine, or countless other fields. The key is to find something you genuinely love, and then it won't feel like work at all. Best of luck on your journey!
Liana Ho
Graphic Designer
38
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Liana’s Answer
Hi Abby,
You have a great question! I will try my best to answer your questions! It really depends on what you're looking for. You will need to find a career you feel interested or passionate about. You can start off by taking classes you feel most interested in. You will need to find a major. Next, you will need to go to college to get a degree. Once you're in college, you can go to the career center. The people will help you find a good job. After four years, you will graduate with a BA degree, and you can apply for a lot of jobs! I highly recommend you find an internship during your college years. As a matter of fact, you will gain more experience, and perspective, and boost your self-confidence! I hope these tips will benefit you in pursuing your goals! Take care!
You have a great question! I will try my best to answer your questions! It really depends on what you're looking for. You will need to find a career you feel interested or passionate about. You can start off by taking classes you feel most interested in. You will need to find a major. Next, you will need to go to college to get a degree. Once you're in college, you can go to the career center. The people will help you find a good job. After four years, you will graduate with a BA degree, and you can apply for a lot of jobs! I highly recommend you find an internship during your college years. As a matter of fact, you will gain more experience, and perspective, and boost your self-confidence! I hope these tips will benefit you in pursuing your goals! Take care!
Thank you so much!
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1860
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. Firstly, you may need to find out what you have interest.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you are interested in Music, would you like to be a singer, musician, musical actor, music producer, music composer, etc
If you are interested in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, maths teacher, financial analyst, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these career. Seek guidance from your mentor, parents or your school career counsellor, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relationships subjects in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you are interested in Music, would you like to be a singer, musician, musical actor, music producer, music composer, etc
If you are interested in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, maths teacher, financial analyst, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these career. Seek guidance from your mentor, parents or your school career counsellor, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relationships subjects in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Hira Sadiq
Graphic designer and Content writer,Copy writer nd blogger
5
Answers
Nawabshah, Sindh, Pakistan
Updated
Hira’s Answer
Figuring Out a Career:
Assess yourself - identify strengths, interests, and skills.
Research various careers - job descriptions, qualifications, salary, etc.
Set clear career goals - short-term and long-term.
Gain hands-on experience - internships or volunteering.
Network with professionals - get insights and potential opportunities.
Consider lifestyle preferences - work-life balance and job demands.
Pursuing a Chosen Career:
Identify requirements - degrees, certifications, or experience needed.
Get relevant education and training.
Develop necessary skills - through workshops or courses.
Gain practical experience - internships or entry-level positions.
Network for connections and job opportunities.
Create a tailored resume and cover letter.
Job search actively - use job boards and networking.
Prepare for interviews - showcase enthusiasm and suitability.
Stay open to new opportunities and be proactive in your professional growth
Assess yourself - identify strengths, interests, and skills.
Research various careers - job descriptions, qualifications, salary, etc.
Set clear career goals - short-term and long-term.
Gain hands-on experience - internships or volunteering.
Network with professionals - get insights and potential opportunities.
Consider lifestyle preferences - work-life balance and job demands.
Pursuing a Chosen Career:
Identify requirements - degrees, certifications, or experience needed.
Get relevant education and training.
Develop necessary skills - through workshops or courses.
Gain practical experience - internships or entry-level positions.
Network for connections and job opportunities.
Create a tailored resume and cover letter.
Job search actively - use job boards and networking.
Prepare for interviews - showcase enthusiasm and suitability.
Stay open to new opportunities and be proactive in your professional growth
Tiarra Hill
Teacher
43
Answers
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Updated
Tiarra’s Answer
Hi Abby, hone in on your interests. If you excel at math, maybe pursue teaching, accounting, or business. Begin researching different careers associated with your interests. If you like real estate, look up necessary schooling, tests, or training. Maybe college is not needed and as someone already suggested look into community colleges because they are cheaper and will allow you to get those corr classes at a cheaper price versus going straight to a community college.
Kimberly Krebs
Corporate Security Manager
80
Answers
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
Hello and great question.
The next step would be to find someone else who is already doing that job. Look for them on LinkedIn or social media and ask to connect with them. Most people will be happy to talk about themselves and their journey. You can also apply for an internship to get your foot in the door and learn more about the position you are interested in. A college counselor would also be a good resource if your career requires a degree. They can get you set up with an action plan.
Good luck, Abby
Try to find someone in that same field
The next step would be to find someone else who is already doing that job. Look for them on LinkedIn or social media and ask to connect with them. Most people will be happy to talk about themselves and their journey. You can also apply for an internship to get your foot in the door and learn more about the position you are interested in. A college counselor would also be a good resource if your career requires a degree. They can get you set up with an action plan.
Good luck, Abby
Kimberly recommends the following next steps:
Daniel Borges Crema
Teacher
2
Answers
Sacramento, MG
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
Sure, there might be a heap of tests and stuff, but really, it's all about knowing yourself better than anything else. You've got to figure out what kind of work makes you feel fulfilled because loving what you do is a big part of being successful.
Remember, sometimes we've got to make a few wrong turns to find the right path. So, I'd suggest trying out a part-time job of any sort, just to get a taste of working with others, handling stress, and so on.
You might find that you're a person who thrives in a bustling workplace, or maybe you're more comfortable working from your own cozy corner at home. Deciding on a career path is super important these days, especially since there are so many opportunities to work from home, and even more on the horizon.
Remember, sometimes we've got to make a few wrong turns to find the right path. So, I'd suggest trying out a part-time job of any sort, just to get a taste of working with others, handling stress, and so on.
You might find that you're a person who thrives in a bustling workplace, or maybe you're more comfortable working from your own cozy corner at home. Deciding on a career path is super important these days, especially since there are so many opportunities to work from home, and even more on the horizon.